When we start considering prayer, we might think of the time Jesus’ disciples asked him to teach them to prayer. They had observed his prayer life and were amazed at what they had witnessed. What he shared gave us what we think of as a model prayer.

Another prayer is the prayer that Jesus prayed shortly before his crucifixion, which is recorded in John 17 when Jesus prayed for himself, his disciples and then for everyone who believes in him through their word. That prayer includes every person who had accepted and trusted in Jesus even to this day. From this prayer it is clear that the desire of Jesus’ heart was that all who trusted in him would be “one” as he and the Father are one of we could say in a close relationship as he and the Father were.

Jesus said in Matthew 16:24, “If anyone would come after me, he must deny himself, take up his cross and follow me.” If we are going to follow Jesus we have to listen to him and then do what He says.

The one thing that Jesus promised the disciples was the gift of the Holy Spirit which would lead and guide them. The instructions Jesus gave to his disciples shortly before he was taken up to heaven was to wait in Jerusalem for the promised Holy Spirit. In Acts 1:5 he said, “For John baptized with water but in a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.”

This came true in Acts 2 and when 3,000 people responded they were also promised the Holy Spirit as a gift.

Many people today think the “Book of Acts” could have been called the “Acts of the Holy Spirit.” In Acts 4:8 it is written “then Peter filled with the Holy Spirit” and throughout the book of Acts there are many references to the Holy Spirit leading and speaking to the disciples.

When we accept Jesus as Lord and Savior, we then have a relationship with Father, Son and Holy Spirit. In any relationship what is most important — talking or listening? I think we would all say “listening.” My challenge to you is this: Every day talk to the Father, Son or Holy Spirit asking, “What is my assignment for today?” And then act on it or do the assignment He has given you.